The new year weight control tips

The holiday season and the New Year can often resemble the weight watcher’s own personal obstacle race! It’s the time when the weather is mellow; the food is rich and most resolutions are still to be formed. At such a time, how can you navigate the goodies-laden table to emerge on the other side without putting on too much, if not any, weight?

Let’s look at some basic tips.

The best part about the holidays is that you know what you will encounter on that dining table at your friends’ and relatives’ houses. Keep in mind that every trip out of the house can be a temptation.

Before leaving the house, especially to socialize, you should eat and leave the house. That way when you reach your friend’s house, you will not feel like heading straight to the snacks table.

When you are over at your friends’, look for healthier alternatives like vegetables crudités, fruits, or even baked snacks instead of picking on the fried and greasy alternatives. You could also limit your intake of alcohol or alcohol based drinks as not only are they calorie packed; they also encourage heavy duty snacking. Eggnog is one such example which is a tasty holiday drink and is choc-o-bloc full of calories.

Another area you can control is by doing portion control. Take smaller plates and pile on smaller bites. If you are not hungry you may not always go back for more. You may have to fight your host to do so but if will make a big difference. If you are trying to control your intake for the first holiday season, remember that it is hard work and do not make too many changes right in the beginning. Start small. Set achievable goals and don’t be too had on yourself. It is the holiday season after all, one you need to enjoy.

Most holiday baking and cooking happens in advance. When you do your baking or the planning of menus, look for healthier options. Substitute with whole grains, coarser sugar and even healthier frostings. Try and keep away from all processed goods. If your socializing involves potluck, ask your host if you can bring something and let your dish be the healthy alternative on the table. Whether it is a wholesome salad, or a whole-wheat pasta with a tomato sauce or even just a whole wheat cake – you will feel better with your choice.

If it helps, keep a record of what you eat. That way, once the holidays are over, you will know how much off tract you went and will be able to make restitution and get back to getting fit. When you shop during the holiday season, ensure that you do not shop on an empty stomach. You are likely to make unhealthier choices if you shop when hungry.

Do not give up your exercise routine because it’s the holidays. The regular walk or job will make a big difference. You will not feel as lethargic and if you do land up indulging, the walk will also chase away the guilt. Remain active and don’t give up your lifestyle because you slipped up once. Make amends and move on.

Staying positive can also make a huge difference. Just telling yourself that it is a good approach and thought it seems difficult, it is actually easy, can make it easy for you. At the end of the holiday season, you may have, after all, put on some weight. But don’t berate yourself and as soon as possible get back to living a fuller and richer lifestyle which will automatically help you shed the excess weight.